"The complex issues of drug shortages continues to be a high priority for the FDA, and early notification is a critical tool that helps mitigate or prevent looming shortages," said Dr. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.

From 2010 to 2012, the nation experienced 546 drug shortages, 399 of which involved sterile, injectable drugs. Most of these shortages were caused by quality and manufacturing issues, according to the FDA. Others were caused by a lack of raw materials and components from suppliers.

Drug supply shortages reached an all-time-high in 2010, prompting a 2011 Executive Order from the president to address the issue. The FDA implemented reporting requirements for manufacturers at the time and was also required to draft a strategic plan for preventing and mitigating drug shortages.

The FDA said that with timely notification from a manufacturer about an impending shortage, the agency can determine if other drug makers are able and willing to step of production of the product. The agency said it was also able to work with manufacturers to determine the root cause of the shortage.

New actions the FDA now plans to undertake include improving the agency's communications about shortages, clarifying drug-makers' roles and responsibilities in the face of a shortage and internal administrative improvements.

German doctors have successfully implanted insulin-producing cells in a patient with Type 1 diabetes using a specially constructed chamber system that does not require the use of immunosuppresant drugs, according to a new study.

Does your Halloween costume include decorative contact lenses? If so, the Food and Drug Administration has a warning for you: Make sure you get a prescription from an optometrist or other eye care professional.